Royall Bay Rhum

When it comes to throwback masculine scents, bay rum is up there with the best of them. It was a favorite of barbers who frequently slapped it on freshly shaved faces. Sweet, spicy and unequivocally masculine, it's the kind of scent you remember your grandfather and maybe even your father wearing. And while there are countless old school brands still selling the stuff, we fall back on this version from Royall Lyme Bermuda, who've been making high quality island-inspired fragrances here in the US for more than half a century. Traditionally prepared with the oil of Dominican bay leaves and finished with spices and a touch of menthol, it's crisp yet subtle enough not to overpower. Brooks Brothers first started carrying the line of "all-purpose lotions" in 1960 and still carries the brand today.